With the peacock eye, breeders have added a particularly beautiful specimen to the rhododendron family. The color of the flowers and their pattern are unique, but not the demands of the plant. Since peacock eye is typical rhododendron!
The peacock is a particularly beautiful species of rhododendron
growth and appearance
The growth form and the appearance of the leaves are the same as with all known rhododendrons. This trademarked variety can reach a maximum height of 1 to 1.5 m and at least as wide.
The color and pattern of the flowers are what make this variety so special. They are lilac in color with a burgundy eye. The flowering period lasts from late May to mid-June. A rebloom may follow in September.
location and soil
Here, too, the requirements of the original plant have remained. The location in the garden must be partially shaded to shaded. The soil loose, humus and above all acidic. Instead of in the bed, the peacock can also be planted in a bucket.
planting
As container goods, this rhododendron can be planted all year round. Only frosty winter days are eliminated. Hot summer days should also be avoided, as heat stresses the plant.
watering and fertilizing
The peacock eye must be watered all year round if there is a need for water. The top layer of soil can and should dry beforehand. With potted plants, the owner has to water more often without putting the plant under water. It helps if the pot has large drainage holes and a drainage layer was laid in when planting.
Fertilize the peacock with a special rhododendron fertilizer. Coffee grounds are also a good source of nutrients as they lower the pH of the soil.
To cut
This hybrid strain requires no pruning. Scissors are only used when individual branches have to be removed or shortened. However, remove the faded flowers regularly.
hibernate
The peacock moth is hardy down to -20 °C and survives the winter well when planted out in the garden. However, you should cover the root area of a young plant with brushwood, since its winter hardiness is not yet fully developed.
Even a container plant must always be protected over the winter:
- Wrap the pot with fleece, bubble wrap or jute
- then place on styrofoam
- choose a safe place
- ideally on the wall of the house